Korean cinema has come a long way in recent years and has established itself as one of the most dynamic and exciting film industries in the world. With its unique blend of diverse genres, powerful storytelling, and standout performances, Korean films have captured the attention of audiences globally. Despite its growing popularity, there are still many Korean films that are underrated and have not received the recognition they deserve. From psychological thrillers to crime dramas, horror films to monster movies, this list explores 15 of the most underrated Korean movies that deserve to be seen by more people. These films offer a glimpse into the rich and varied landscape of Korean cinema, and are sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who watches them.
The Handmaiden (2016)
A psychological thriller directed by Park Chan-wook, “The Handmaiden” is set in colonial-era Korea and Japan and tells the story of a young pickpocket who is hired to be a maid for a wealthy heiress. The film is known for its intricate plot twists, stunning cinematography, and strong performances by its talented cast. “The Handmaiden” has been widely acclaimed for its unique storytelling and masterful direction, and is considered a must-watch for fans of Korean cinema.
A Tale of Two Sisters (2003)
Directed by Kim Jee-woon, “A Tale of Two Sisters” is a horror-mystery film that follows two sisters who return to their family home after a long absence and begin to experience supernatural events. The film blends elements of psychological horror, emotional family drama, and supernatural elements to create a haunting and atmospheric story. With its intricate plot, strong performances, and masterful direction, “A Tale of Two Sisters” is considered a classic of Korean horror cinema.
Memories of Murder (2003)
A crime-thriller film based on the real-life serial killings that took place in rural South Korea in the 1980s, “Memories of Murder” is directed by Bong Joon-ho and stars Song Kang-ho. The film is known for its intense and suspenseful storytelling, strong performances by its talented cast, and its exploration of themes such as justice, police corruption, and the impact of crime on rural communities. “Memories of Murder” is widely regarded as a classic of Korean crime cinema, and a must-watch for fans of the genre.
Mother (2009)
A psychological drama directed by Bong Joon-ho, “Mother” tells the story of a widowed mother who will stop at nothing to clear her son of a murder charge. The film is known for its strong performances, particularly by its lead actress Kim Hye-ja, and for its exploration of themes such as maternal love, justice, and the consequences of violence. “Mother” is considered one of Bong Joon-ho’s most powerful and emotionally resonant films, and a must-watch for fans of Korean cinema.
The Host (2006)
A monster movie directed by Bong Joon-ho, “The Host” is a thrilling and suspenseful film that follows a family’s attempts to save their daughter after she is taken by a giant monster that emerges from the Han River. The film is known for its blend of humor, horror, and social commentary, as well as its strong performances and its thrilling action sequences. “The Host” is widely regarded as one of the best Korean monster movies ever made, and a must-watch for fans of the genre.
Thirst (2009)
Directed by Park Chan-wook, “Thirst” is a horror-drama film that tells the story of a Catholic priest who becomes a vampire after undergoing a medical experiment. The film is known for its unique blend of horror, drama, and dark humor, as well as its strong performances, particularly by its lead actor Song Kang-ho. “Thirst” has been widely praised for its original and inventive storytelling, and is considered a must-watch for fans of Korean horror cinema.
The King and the Clown (2005)
A historical drama directed by Lee Joon-ik, “The King and the Clown” is set in Joseon-era Korea and tells the story of a group of clowns who perform for the king and become embroiled in a dangerous power struggle. The film is known for its strong performances, particularly by its lead actors Kam Woo-sung and Lee Joon-gi, and for its exploration of themes such as political power, sexuality, and identity. “The King and the Clown” is widely regarded as one of the best Korean historical dramas ever made, and a must-watch for fans of the genre.
My Sassy Girl (2001)
A romantic comedy directed by Kwak Jae-yong, “My Sassy Girl” is based on a series of internet posts that went viral in South Korea in the early 2000s. The film follows a young man who falls in love with a quirky and unpredictable young woman, and is known for its blend of humor, heart, and strong performances. “My Sassy Girl” is widely regarded as a classic of Korean romantic comedy, and a must-watch for fans of the genre.
Save the Green Planet (2003)
A science fiction-thriller directed by Jang Joon-hwan, “Save the Green Planet” tells the story of a man who believes that aliens are responsible for the destruction of the Earth, and kidnaps a wealthy executive in an attempt to save the planet. The film is known for its unique blend of science fiction, thriller, and dark comedy, as well as its strong performances, particularly by its lead actor Shin Ha-kyun. “Save the Green Planet” is widely regarded as one of the most inventive and entertaining Korean science fiction films ever made, and a must-watch for fans of the genre.
Bungee Jumping of Their Own (2001)
A romantic drama directed by Song Neung-han, “Bungee Jumping of Their Own” is a touching and bittersweet film that follows two college friends who reconnect years later and attempt to rekindle their relationship. The film is known for its strong performances, particularly by its lead actors Lee Byeong-heon and Kim Tae-hee, and for its exploration of themes such as love, friendship, and loss. “Bungee Jumping of Their Own” is widely regarded as one of the best Korean romantic dramas ever made, and a must-watch for fans of the genre.
Oldboy (2003)
Directed by Park Chan-wook, “Oldboy” is a dark and intense psychological thriller that tells the story of a man who is mysteriously imprisoned for 15 years, and then suddenly released without explanation. The film is known for its shocking twists and turns, its strong performances, particularly by its lead actor Choi Min-sik, and for its exploration of themes such as revenge, justice, and identity. “Oldboy” is widely regarded as one of the best Korean thrillers ever made, and is considered a must-watch for fans of the genre.
Memories of Murder (2003)
A crime thriller directed by Bong Joon-ho, “Memories of Murder” is based on the true story of South Korea’s first serial killer case and follows the investigation into a series of brutal murders in the 1980s. The film is known for its strong performances, particularly by its lead actors Song Kang-ho and Kim Roi-ha, and for its exploration of themes such as justice, corruption, and societal change. “Memories of Murder” is widely regarded as one of the best Korean crime thrillers ever made, and is a must-watch for fans of the genre.
Joint Security Area (2000)
A political thriller directed by Park Chan-wook, “Joint Security Area” is set in the demilitarized zone between North and South Korea, and tells the story of a murder investigation that takes place in the border area. The film is known for its strong performances, particularly by its lead actor Lee Young-ae, and for its exploration of themes such as friendship, loyalty, and identity. “Joint Security Area” is widely regarded as one of the best Korean political thrillers ever made, and is a must-watch for fans of the genre.
A Tale of Two Sisters (2003)
A horror-drama directed by Kim Jee-woon, “A Tale of Two Sisters” is a haunting and atmospheric film that tells the story of two sisters who return to their childhood home, only to find that it is haunted by a mysterious and malevolent force. The film is known for its strong performances, particularly by its lead actress Lim Soo-jung, and for its exploration of themes such as family, love, and loss. “A Tale of Two Sisters” is widely regarded as one of the best Korean horror films ever made, and is a must-watch for fans of the genre.
The Host (2006)
A monster movie directed by Bong Joon-ho, “The Host” is a thrilling and entertaining film that tells the story of a family who must rescue their daughter from a mysterious monster that has emerged from the Han River in Seoul. The film is known for its blend of humor, heart, and thrills, its strong performances, particularly by its lead actors Song Kang-ho and Bae Doona, and for its exploration of themes such as family, love, and survival. “The Host” is widely regarded as one of the best Korean monster movies ever made, and is a must-watch for fans of the genre.
Conclusion
This list of 15 underrated Korean movies showcases the depth and breadth of the Korean film industry, and highlights the exceptional talent of its filmmakers and actors. From thrilling crime dramas to heartwarming family tales, these films offer a unique and captivating look at Korean culture and society. Whether you are a fan of the Korean film genre or simply looking for something new and exciting to watch, these underrated gems are sure to satisfy your cravings for high-quality cinema. So, sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride as you delve into the world of Korean cinema and discover the hidden treasures that it has to offer.